Phuket’s iconic temples and beaches are the essential yin and yang of this resort island in southern Thailand. The temples connect you with the deep, rich culture of Thailand, while the beaches provide sun and fun. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I spent 2 full days (each day a decade apart), exploring the famous Wat Chalong, Patong Beach, Promthep Cape and delicious Thai food. So, read on to learn about tips on Phuket temples and beaches tour.
Phuket is referred to as the “Pearl of the Andaman Sea,” as a lush island with gorgeous beaches off the southern peninsula of Thailand. The island is a popular tourist destination, with the capital city’s Phuket City and main resort town, Patong. The island is mountainous with rainforests and beautiful tropical beaches. As a crossroad, Phuket is a melting pot, with diverse influences, such as, Thai, Chinese, Malay and Western.
With more than 30 beaches, this island offers many ways to enjoy the beautiful, pristine waters. Because Thailand is a mostly Buddhist country, there are 29 Buddhist temples on the island. Therefore, the temples and beaches offer culture and nature for all to enjoy.
Phuket’s Wat Chalong Tour, Big Buddha,
Patong Beach & Thai Restaurant
Along with a group of crewmembers, we found a Guide in a van to take us on a day tour of Phuket. Upon arrival, I had done no research and just let the guide take us to the highlights in a fun-filled day.
This is one of those travel journeys that it was about the journey and not the destination. It all jived and flowed with spontaneous fun and camaraderie! Firstly, we headed to the most famous Buddhist temple in Phuket, Wat Chalong. This was my first Asian Buddhist temple experience. What an introduction!
Wat Chalong or Wat Chaiyatararam
Wat Chalong is located near Chalong Bay about 8 km south of Phuket City. Among the 29 Buddhist temples on Phuket, Wat (Temple) Chalong is the most popular and revered. This ornate temple complex is open both for those that come to pray or just be a tourist. The architecture comprises ornate shrines and halls, multi-tiered roofs and gilt finials.
A highlight is its Wat Chalong Chedi or Grand Pagoda, where a splinter of Buddha’s bone is kept. This elaborate and beautiful temple rises to 60 meters high. Also, inside its wall paintings depict the Buddha’s life story.
In the Main Hall visitors can seek their fortune. Firstly, find the 2 cans filled with bamboo sticks. Then, shake the cans until a stick falls to the ground. Notice the number on the stick and find that drawer number on a nearby cabinet. Finally, read the fortune on the paper in the drawer. Additionally, the Poh Than Jao Wat is one of the most important Buddhist statues at the temple complex, located in the western old hall.
Big Buddha
Near the Wat Chalong is Phuket’s Big Buddha, a 45-metre-tall white marble statue. It’s visible from anywhere in the southern island, perched on a hilltop. I didn’t make it to the site, but we saw it from a distance. If I made it back to Phuket, I would definitely check out its popular panoramic view from its platform.
When I revisited Phuket, the Big Buddha was closed. There was a massive landslide in 2024 that created safety concerns. So, check on this before planning to see it.
Patong Beach
About 18 km northwest of Wat Chalong is the popular Patong Beach. Being on an island with 30 beaches as one of the best says a lot! We enjoyed a quick swim and walk along the beach. Although we didn’t get to experience Palong’s legendary nightlife. Patong has the best of both worlds with its extraordinary beach along with its rooftop bars, nightclubs and beach clubs.
Thai Food Grand Finale
Ok, this was the Grand Finale to our day! We found the ideal Thai restaurant on the ocean shore. It was the perfect combination of fun camaraderie, ambience and delicious Thai food. We all enjoyed and still rave about this meal, laughing, drinking and eating mouth-watery dishes, such as, Pad Thai, Chicken and coconut soup, Spicy Papaya Salad, Morning Glory and Fried Rice. Yum!!! Whatever you do in Thailand, don’t miss out on the spicy Thai Food!!
I regret that I didn’t note the name of the restaurant. This was one of the best meal experiences of my life. If anyone recognizes this restaurant, please leave comments below.
Promthep Cape & Temple – A Decade Later
If you notice that I look a bit more mature, it is because I am a decade in years older. I returned to Phuket for a day and decided to explore something different. The Promthep Cape is known for offering the best sunset view in Phuket. I didn’t make it there for sunset, but the day panorama is awesome too. There’s also a beautiful lighthouse on the cape.
Promthep also holds cultural significance. At the top of the hill, I visited a shrine dedicated to Brahma, a Hindu deity. It’s surrounded by hundreds of elephant statues donated by devotees. It’s a place where both locals and tourists pay their respects and seek blessings.
Enjoy Phuket!
Is it any wonder that Phuket is a popular tourist destination? And it is all pretty simple here for planning. Just think temples and beaches and you are on the path for enlightened fun! I just hope it is not another 10 years before I return. If your travels bring you to Phuket, feel free to leave tips or suggestions below.
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